Daily Gospel Reflection for April 11, 2014

The tension is rising. Jesus has just healed the blind man whom the Pharisees believed was blind because of his sin. Jesus affirms it is the Pharisees who fail to recognize their blindness- who remain in their guilt and sin. He calls Himself one with the Father, and the next thing you know, stones are being lifted in anger.

It is His time. He is Truth. He cannot deny the Father, or who He is in Him. We can imagine His heart aching for the conversion of Pharisaical hearts.

“If you do not believe me, believe in the works…that you may understand that the Father is in me and I am in the Father.”

It seems like a last cry to them. Don’t you see? I am the Good Shepherd! I am willing to even lay down my life for you! Just look at my works- they are full of compassion. Do your hearts still not understand?

Jesus resigns Himself to the Father’s Will. This will go another way.

How often it is in our own lives that we long for someone we love to understand. Sometimes our acts of love for the soul’s salvation are misunderstood. Others want to throw stones at us- sharp words, heavy accusations, cold remarks.

In these times we must always confess any of our own blindness first. We must cross the Jordon River of baptismal vows and confession. We then believe in the works of the One who can change all hearts.

Ponder:

How do you handle rejection when you believe you are sharing the Truth? How do you approach the Lord in prayer when this has happened?

Pray:

Jesus, I want to understand more fully your oneness with the Father. Take away my blindness, give me courage to stand in your Truth even when others reject me. I believe in all the mighty works you will do in my life!

About Author

Catholic wife and mom, Cindy Costello, works as Coordinator of Marriage Ministry for the Diocese of Paterson, NJ. Using her instructor's certification from the Theology of the Body Institute in Downingtown, PA, she enjoys speaking and writing wherever the Holy Spirit leads her. Married 30 years with 3 grown and 2 teenaged children, she integrates her prayer life into her life's experiences in evangelizing the joy of the Catholic Faith. Visit her website at CindyACostello.com.

2 Comments

Cynthia, I have learned that handling rejection has a LOT to do with one’s level of humility. I, for one, am NOT a humble person, and I struggle with it on a daily basis. I really appreciate you putting into perspective the importance of seeking to UNDERSTAND rather than to BE UNDERSTOOD. That is so important in the spiritual life, isn’t it? Blessings to you!

Thank you for your comment and forgive my late reply! I agree! I know in my head that accepting humiliations and rejection leads to holiness, but the heart is often slow to follow. With each victory Jesus has in me, I praise Him. May God bless you as we journey together!